Entry of foreign minors into the Philippines

The New Zealand embassy has learned that strict rules governing the entry into the Philippines of foreign children under 15 years old are being enforced by the Philippines’ Bureau of Immigration.

We understand that minors that are not accompanied by their parents will be allowed entry to the Philippines only after their guardian or representative pays a fee of 3,210 Pesos to the Bureau of Immigration at the port of entry.  The Bureau of Immigration will also retain the minor’s passport and a copy of their plane ticket and arrival card.  This is part of the Bureau’s efforts to monitor the arrival and departure of foreign minors who enter the Philippines as temporary visitors or tourists. 

An official receipt for the fee and passport will be provided to the minor’s guardian or representative.  The passport will be returned upon the minor’s departure from the Philippines.

The embassy is endeavoring to obtain more information on the newly-enforced regulation and will provide further updates as necessary.